BMW Previews New i3 and MINI Concept for Frankfurt Motor Show

With the Frankfurt Motor Show right around the corner (Sept. 14-24), BMW has previewed a number of the electric models that will be making their world debut: the new BMW i3 and the new BMW i3s. The i3s a new model variant of the i3 that is designed for “all-electric mobility.” Both the new i3 and i3s feature a CFRP passenger cell.

“The design principle of the two four-seater models means there is no need for either fixed B-pillars or a transmission tunnel,” BMW says. “Doors that open in opposite directions allow the occupants to get in and out with the greatest of ease.” According to BMW, the i3 has reigned as the top-selling premium electric car in its class since 2014. The OEM attribute a great deal of the success to the vehicle’s “inspirational design.”

BMW will also showcase its take on future personal mobility in the city in the form of a MINI Electric Concept. The concept features a number of composite elements, including “clearly molded fiberglass add-on parts” along the lower edge serve to intensify the car’s proportions. The aerodynamic inlays – made using a 3-D printing process – have the same fiberglass structure as the air deflectors. The rear apron features aerodynamic elements similar to those at the front, including air deflectors and a fiberglass diffuser.

BMW says the concept is MINI’s most “significant, pioneering” step in nearly 10 years, when the OEM’s MINI E debuted. The MINI E was their first all-electric car to be driven by private users in everyday traffic conditions, and research from the car’s development paved the way for the i3.

MINI will present an all-electric series-production model of the new concept in 2019.

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